Trinidad and Tobago President Honoured with Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award by India

Christine Carla Kangaloo, President of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, has been honored with the prestigious Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award by India. This accolade acknowledges her exceptional achievements in public affairs and her contributions to enhancing India’s global prestige.

The High Commission of India in Trinidad and Tobago announced the honor during a Republic Day reception, where the award was presented by Dr. Pradeep Rajpurohit, India’s High Commissioner, on behalf of President Droupadi Murmu.

A Distinguished Guest at the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Convention

Kangaloo, who has Indo-Trinidadian roots, was the chief guest at the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Convention held in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, from January 8–10, 2025. Her virtual address at the convention resonated with audiences in India and beyond, showcasing her deep connection to her Indian heritage.

Strengthening Historical and Diplomatic Ties

In her speech, Kangaloo highlighted the historical ties between India and Trinidad and Tobago, which date back to 1845 when Indian indentured workers first arrived on Trinidadian shores. She emphasized India’s swift establishment of diplomatic relations with Trinidad and Tobago after the latter gained independence in 1962.

Celebrating India's Global Contributions

The President praised India’s significant achievements in education, medicine, mathematics, and navigation. She reflected on India’s historical milestones, including the establishment of the ancient Takshashila University, the development of Ayurveda, and mathematical advancements such as algebra, trigonometry, calculus, and the concept of zero. Kangaloo also highlighted India’s cultural contributions, including chess and the decimal system, and acknowledged Sushruta as the pioneer of surgery.

The Impact of the Indian Diaspora

Kangaloo underscored the global contributions of the Indian diaspora, noting their vital role in cultural, social, and economic progress worldwide. She lauded the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas conventions for fostering collaboration between India and its diaspora and celebrating the resilience and achievements of people of Indian origin.

The Indo-Trinidadian Legacy

Reflecting on Trinidad and Tobago’s history, Kangaloo mentioned the arrival of over 143,000 Indian indentured workers over 72 years, which significantly shaped the nation’s demographic, cultural, and economic landscape. Today, descendants of these workers form around 42% of the population, contributing to the nation’s traditions and development.

Gratitude for India’s Support and the Award

President Kangaloo expressed her heartfelt gratitude for the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award, stating, “I feel deeply humbled and honoured by this recognition.” She also commended India for its assistance during the Covid-19 pandemic, including the timely provision of vaccines, which showcased India’s global solidarity under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

About the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award

The Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award is the highest honor given to overseas Indians for their remarkable contributions in various fields, strengthening the bond between India and its diaspora. Kangaloo’s recognition serves as a testament to her dedication to fostering closer ties between Trinidad and Tobago and India.

Conclusion

The recognition of President Christine Carla Kangaloo with the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award underscores the enduring bond between India and Trinidad and Tobago. Her achievements in public affairs, coupled with her efforts to enhance India’s global prestige, serve as an inspiration to the global Indian diaspora. Through her speech at the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Convention, Kangaloo highlighted the rich historical ties, shared heritage, and the profound contributions of Indo-Trinidadians to the nation’s cultural and economic fabric.

Her acknowledgment of India’s advancements in education, medicine, and global solidarity, especially during the Covid-19 pandemic, reflects the deep mutual respect between the two nations. The award is a testament to her remarkable leadership and dedication to strengthening diplomatic relations and fostering collaboration between India and its diaspora. As India continues to honor individuals who bridge cultural and national boundaries, the legacy of such recognitions will inspire future generations to build stronger connections worldwide.